Group Purchase Your Way to Big Savings • Resident Screening: Why Bother? Complete Your Savings Puzzle!

SuitesPublished by the Northeast Ohio Apartment Association May 2013

Also Inside: • Are Geese Annoying You? • Maximize Benefits of TV, Internet and Phone Contracts Group Purchase your way to big savings • Resident Screening: Why Bother? Complete Your Savings Puzzle!

W O ith N AA’s Group Purchasing Partners

Harness the savings OF membership in a collective of over 125,000 units

• Electric Supply • Paint & Carpet North Shore Energy Sherwin Williams Gary Greulich • (330) 807-4438 Mike Finazzo or Chuck Jennison • (216) 271-6111

• Faucets and Parts • Payroll Services American Brass Manufacturing Ahola Matt McConville • (216) 431-6565 Jeffrey Ahola • (440) 717-7620 x 147

• Marketing Services • Telecom Ancillary Revenue & More Consolidated Solutions Choice Property Resources Art Johanson • (440) 668-6032 Shari Smith • (614) 568-7303

• Natural Gas Supply • Workers Compensation IGS Energy CareWorks Consultants Scott Arthur • (877) 923-4447 x 2605 Shawn Combs • (614) 526-7264

2 May 2013 Northeast Ohio T able of Contents May 2013 Apartment Association Western Reserve Building 1468 West 9th Street • Suite 110 Executive Vice President’s Message...... Cleveland, OH 44113 4 New Members...... 6 Executive Officers President Calendar of Events...... 7 Joy Anzalone Burton Carol Management Past Events and Photos...... 8 – Brainstorming, Casino Bus Trip President-Elect Claudia Madden Are Geese Annoying You?...... UGP Properties 10 – Jeff Hower | Ohio Geese Control Vice President Charles Schulman Significant Water Savings through Conservation...... 12 Carlyle Management Company – Paul Adrams | Roto Rooter

Treasurer M aximize Benefits ofT V, Internet and Phone Contracts...... 13 Dan Ross – Shari Smith | Choice Property Resources Landmark RE Management H iring a Landscaping Partner...... 14 Secretary – Nicole Smigel | Schill Grounds Management Janene Kubit 200 West Apartments P ower in Numbers Presidential Appointee George Cvijovic 16 Forest City Residential Management Group Purchase your

Immediate Past President way to big savings. Robert Sorin Royal American Group

Executive Vice President Ralph McGreevy Northeast Ohio Apartment Association

Associate Council Appointee David Neale Resident Screening: Why Bother?...... 20 Roto-Rooter Services Co. – Amy Stauffer | AmRent

Association Staff Three Expensive Missteps with your Data Backups...... 22 Ralph McGreevy – Michael P. Mandato | System Care, Inc. Executive Vice President Legislative Update...... 23 Jacqui Bongiovanni OfficeM anager Buyer’s Guide...... 24 Ryan Flanagan Media and Marketing Manager Eviction Index / Vacancy Rates...... 26

Contact NOAA Western Reserve Building Published by the Northeast Ohio Apartment Association 1468 West 9th Street • Suite 110 Cleveland, OH 44113 Phone Fax The Northeast Ohio Apartment Association is a non-profit organization committed to 216.241.1635 216.241.1636 furthering professionalism in the multi-family housing industry. NOAA serves sixteen Ohio counties through specially designed education, networking and legislative programs. NOAA Online Website: noaamembers.com Facebook Page: facebook.com/NOAAPage President’s Suites: noaamembers.com/suites-magazine • AmRent • Powers Friedman Linn, PLL • Apartments.com • Roto-Rooter Graphic Design: Ryan Flanagan • Belfor USA • Schill Grounds Management • Coinmach • C.C. Mitchell Supply Co. • The Plain Dealer Printed by: Consolidated Solutions • Dawson Neace Lukens • Cleveland.com • The Sherwin Williams Co. • IGS Energy • Consolidated Solutions • Time Warner Cable

Suites Magazine 3 Ralph MCGreevy, EVP | Northeast Ohio Apartment Association Message from the EVP

Dear NOAA Members,

I miss Andy Rooney. ‘”60 Minutes” as a show has neither been hot nor cold for me, it is purely lukewarm. I can take it or leave it, especially now that Andy Rooney is gone forever. And yes, I know he’s been gone for a while but I just started to miss him.

He always made me think or laugh with his observations of life’s subtleties and absurdities. On Sunday nights I would keep an eye on the clock and make an effort to catch that last: 60 seconds of the program when he appeared behind his desk with eyebrows aplenty. And let’s face it, he wondered aloud about such mundane things as a dog’s life. Not exactly earth-shattering. He mused on about time, the food we eat, how we get from place to place and death. He wasn’t breaking new ground, he just made us think differently about how we view every day life. Did he complain too much? Sure, but who doesn’t?

To be fair, his musings got him into trouble on more than one occasion. At times he proved to be insensitive to the “human condition.” He was far from perfect, but if you overlook his missteps and human frailties, he was one hell of a commentator, and no one has surfaced to make us forget him or his talents.

Which leads me to this phrase; did you ever wonder? I find myself wondering about a lot of things in NE Ohio, do you? Such as…

Did you ever wonder if cars really rust more up north than down south?

Did you ever wonder what happened to the threat of acid rain from Canada?

Did you ever wonder if the Strongsville teachers strike will ever end?

Did you ever wonder if sonic booms did any actual damage?

Did you ever wonder when our lakefront will be developed like other large cities?

Did you ever wonder how people like TJ Lane or Anthony Sowell walked around us without notice?

Did you ever wonder?

Me too!

I wonder about a lot of things, but that’s what fuels my fire and keeps me going. I truly want to know VISIBILITY is the KEY to SUCCESSFUL MARKETING! and I want to learn every day. Consolidated Solutions is proud to be a Here’s to hoping that you follow your intellectual curiosity as well. President’s Circle Member of NOAA Regards

Please contact Art Johanson at 440-668-6038 or [email protected] to learn more about our Corporate Branding Solutions and Ralph McGreevy Exclusive NOAA Member Discounts! Executive Vice President

4 May 2013 Suites Magazine 5 VISIBILITY is the KEY to SUCCESSFUL MARKETING! Consolidated Solutions is proud to be a President’s Circle Member of NOAA

Please contact Art Johanson at 440-668-6038 or [email protected] to learn more about our Corporate Branding Solutions and Exclusive NOAA Member Discounts!

Suites Magazine 5 Welcome New Members! Associate Members

Retraction: The email and web address for A&J Pest Control in the March 2013 issue was incorrect. The correct email and web site are listed below.

A&J Pest Control Chartwell Group LLC Dollar Bank

Debra C. Gulick 1301 E. Ninth St. Kevin Hennessy Lee Miller Suite 2210 1301 East Ninth Street P.O. Box 568 Phone: 216-839-2004 Cleveland, OH 44114 Chesterland, OH 44026 Fax: 216-839-2014 Phone: 216-736-7381 Phone: 440-635-6564 Email: [email protected] Fax: 216-736-7357 Email: [email protected] www.chartwellgroup.com Email: [email protected] www.killpestsdead.com www.dollarbank.com Products and Services: Products and Services: Property Management - Office, Retail, Products and Services: Pest Control, Ants. Investment and Industrial Brokerage - Land Commercial Banking, Real Estate Lending Development - Accelerated Sales

eCollect Famous Supply KnowYourCustomers.com

Justin Scheeff John Covender 6133 Rockside Rd Sherri Foster 13100 Congress Rd Suite 201 11200 Madison Ave. West Salem, OH 44287 Independence, OH 44131 Cleveland, OH 44102 Phone: (877) 668-9190 Phone: (216) 503-2260 Phone: (216) 529-1010 Fax: (419) 853-4422 Fax: (216) 868-0010 Fax: (216) 529-1019 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.KnowYourCustomers.com www.ecollectohio.com www.famous-supply.com

Products and Services: Products and Services: Products and Services: Bad Check Recovery HVAC, Plumbing, Industrial / PVF, Internet Search Building Products

Southwest Landscape Mgmt Welcome New Members! Primary Members

J. Shaprio, LLC Steve Rak Joe Shapiro 33593 Royalton Rd. 19015 Van Aken Blvd. Columbia Station, OH 44028 Phone: (440) 748-600 Shaker Heights, OH 44122 Fax: (440) 748-490 Phone: (216) 410-3547 Email: [email protected] www.sw-landscape.com

Products and Services: Landscape Management Snow and Ice Management

6 May 2013 Before Before

After After

• The Transformation is Shocking. The Bill is Not. • Custom Options Found Nowhere Else! • A Convenient Way to Transform Kitchen and Bathrooms. 24/48 • Like New at a Fraction of the Cost of Replacement. Service • All Work Warranted. • In and Out in 1 Day!

Before After Before you get going on your remodel, Get A Grip. Call us today! Call Click Get A Grip of 330.671.5002 getagripinc.com Greater Cleveland Free Phone Quotes & On-Site Estimates

Calendar of Events For current events and news visit noaamembers.com/calendar

May Subscribe to our calendar for automatic event updates! Click the Subscribe button SMTWTFS below the calendar (www.noaamembers.com/calendar) to link our calendar feed to 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 your personal calendar. Any changes we make to the events on our calendar will be 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 automatically updated on your calendar. 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 MAY 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Associates Council Meeting - 9:00 am. NOAA Offices 10 1468 West 9th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113. 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 Fri

June JUNE Associates Council Meeting - 9:00 am. NOAA Offices S M T W T F S 14 1468 West 9th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113. Fri 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 JUNE Key Awards Judging Day - 9:00 am. At your property. 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 Register your property for the 2013 Key Awards! Register by June 10th Tue 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 JULY Associates Council Meeting - 9:00 am. NOAA Offices 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 12 1468 West 9th Street, Cleveland, OH 44113. Fri

JULY JULY Golf Outing - 9:30 - 11:00 am. Registration. 4-man scramble golf. S M T W T F S 15 Hawthorne Valley Country Club 27840 Aurora Rd, Solon,OH 44139 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 Tue 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 JULY The Lion King - 7:30 pm. Playhouse Square State Theater 18 1519 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland,OH 44115 Sold Out! 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Tue 28 29 30 31 1 2 3

Suites Magazine 7 Past Events & Photos Brainstorming Hawthorne Valley Country Club March 7th 2013

Ideas generated from the 11 Special thanks to our Sponsors! tables and three sessions of brain storming are available at America’s Floor Source • AmeriSeal www.noaamembers.com/ & Restoration • apartments.com brainstorming-2/ AT & T • Belfor • C.C. Mitchell • If you did not receive an email Consolidated Solutions • CORT • to access these notes and you Property Solutions • Riot Creative attended brainstorming, please call Imaging • Schill Grounds 216-241-1635 or email flanagan@ Management • Smart Shingles noaamembers.com for access.

Casino Bus Trip Seneca Allegany Casino March 15th 2013

NOAA Members enjoyed their annual casino bus trip on a snowy Friday in March. Members played pull tab bingo and got to know each other on the five hour round trip bus from Mentor, OH to Salamanca, NY.

8 May 2013 Sleggs, Danzinger & Gill, Co., LPA Contesting real property tax assesments in all of Ohio’s 88 Counties.

We help our clients to maximize their property investments by reducing their property taxes.

E xperienced Legal Counsel in Property Tax Law Sleggs, Danzinger & Gill

(216) 771-8990 820 West Superior Ave. Seventh Floor www.sdglegal.net Cleveland, OH 44113

Suites Magazine 9 Jeff Hower | OHIO GEESE CONTROL Are Geese Annoying You? Spring is in the air, and so are the Canada geese. Have you found yourself maneuvering your way around aggressive geese, or trying to avoid the mess they inevitably leave behind?

Most people will welcome the first pair of Modify Landscape budget, overall goals and landscape of the geese. However, in a short time a pair of People enjoy manicured lawns, and property. Be sure to consider the comfort of geese can easily become 50 birds, which unfortunately, so do the geese. Modifying your residents and any zoning issues when causes aggravation as they foul the area (1 the landscape around ponds and grassy implementing sound or light solutions. These to 2 pounds of droppings per day per bird), areas can make the property less attractive will deter the geese for a short period of time, damage landscaping and become aggressive to the geese. Limiting the use of fertilizer but geese will become accustom to the tactic. towards people. and watering less is a good start, but letting Be sure to move the devices regularly to grassy areas grow up around the ponds extend the period of effectiveness. Geese are creatures of habit, so they will (18” tall) and planting tall shrubs will make come back to the same territory year after the geese feel less secure and obstruct A Dog Gone Solution! year, especially if they learned to fly from their ability to get up onto land. This will The solution that has the biggest impact in your location. make the environment less comfortable migrating the geese away from your property for the geese and make them more leery of is the use of Border collies. The Border collies’ Here are some tips you can do this spring to predators they cannot see in the tall grasses. wolf-like glares make the geese believe there help alleviate the problem: is a predator on-site. The geese ignore the Begin Harassment Programs barking and random chasing of other dogs, Do not feed the geese When all else fails, you will need to Feeding waterfowl and other birds is a popular begin harassing the geese. There are pastime for many people, but it is also a major a number of harassment techniques, cause of high urban bird populations. Feeding each with varying degrees of waterfowl encourages them to congregate in effectiveness, but combining an area and will make geese more aggressive programs is always the best solution. toward people. It is also not healthy for the There are visual scare devices such geese. The first line of defense to prevent geese as the use of fake decoys (owls & from congregating at your property is to stop the coyotes), balloons, lights and sound residents from feeding the geese. Put up signs or machines. The implementation send out flyers to educate and discourage feeding. of these tactics depends on your

10 May 2013 but fly away with the presence of a trained Border collie. Geese are never harmed in the process, and it is the solution recommended by The Humane Society, PETA and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Division.

Chestnut Lakes had challenges with geese control due to the beautifully manicured lawns. They sought alternative methods of control. Ohio Geese Control’s dogs now are a great complement to the landscape.

“The residents love to be able to walk through the community without dodging goose droppings. We started off with over 100 geese, and now we have the population under control. Ohio Geese Control has done a great job, being on site daily and their Border Are Geese collies have worked wonders. We would highly recommend their services.” says Chris Sheely, Regional Manager of Chestnut Lakes and employed by Gross Builders. Annoying You?

OhioOhio Geese Geese Control Control is a issafe, a safe, Ohio Geese Control is a safe, For more information on Canada geese, the migration habits, the diseases they humanehumane and andeffective effective way way to to humane and effective way to carry and how to get rid of them, check controlcontrol geese geese population. population. control geese population. out Ohio Geese Control’s blog at www. ohiogeesecontrol.com. Call usCall for us a forfree a sitefree visitsite atvisit at Call us for a free site visit at 216-228-4822216-228-4822 216-228-4822 Jeff Hower - [email protected] www.ohiogeesecontrol.comwww.ohiogeesecontrol.com www.ohiogeesecontrol.com p: 216-228-4822

Powers Friedman Linn, PLL Attorneys at Law

Providing quality legal advocacy and counsel to owners, managers and landlords throughout Ohio.

www.pfl-law.com

Four Commerce Park Square 23240 Chagrin Blvd. Suite 180 Cleveland, OH 44122 Phone: (216) 514-1180 Fax: (216) 514-1185

Suites Magazine 11 Paul Abrams | Roto Rooter Significant Water Savings through Conservation Forward thinking property management companies have already realized that water and sewer costs will continue to rise in the foreseeable future as drought takes its toll on public water supplies and cities struggle to find money to rebuild crumbling sewer systems and associated infrastructure.

Roto-Rooter Plumbing and Drain Service “These retrofit products represent a lower from the 1990s. But the water savings are announced the results of a year-long cost alternative to replacing older toilets impressive and undeniable. Additionally, study conducted for its ROTOGreen water with the latest 1.28 gpf toilets or dual flush low flow shower heads cause less strain on conservation initiative. The study showed models, which can cost hundreds of dollars water heaters and result in lower energy that the installation of water conservation each before any labor costs to install them costs because the heater doesn’t have to products in a 16-unit apartment complex are factored in. In the case of the New refill and recover as often. reduced indoor water usage by 34%, for an Jersey apartment study by Roto-Rooter, the annual savings of over $3,100 and 565,000 property management company recovered “The whole idea behind ROTOGreen is gallons of water per year. its investment in 18 months because of that we can make it easy for families and lower water bills. businesses to save a significant amount Plumbers installed five water-saving of water and money without changing products in each apartment, including Many plumbers say that customers behaviors because the plumbing parts and retrofitting existing 1.6 gpf (gallons-per- sometimes bristle at the suggestion of fixtures do all of the work,” said Roto- flush) toilets into dual flush models using the low-flow shower heads because early low- Rooter President and COO Rick Arquilla. HydroRight™ dual flush converter and the flow models had a terrible reputation. “The results found in this study show how HydroClean® toilet fill valve manufactured Nobody wanted them and people went to much of a difference this program makes.” by MJSI, Inc. Plumbers also replaced old great lengths to avoid them. There was shower heads with the latest 1.5 gallon-per- even a memorable episode of the Seinfeld The Roto-Rooter study was conducted at minute models and swapped out bathroom TV show in which the supervisor of Jerry the Camden Oaks apartment complex in and kitchen sink faucet aerators with more Seinfeld’s apartment building installed Camden, New Jersey - a 16 unit apartment restrictive flow units. underperforming low-flow showerheads building with 16 showers and bathtubs, 17 that left all the tenants feeling dissatisfied toilets and 33 sinks. According to the U.S. Environmental and angry. Protection Agency’s WaterSense program, replacement of faucet aerators and shower Roto-Rooter tested several shower head heads in a household can be expected to models in employees’ homes before settling Paul Abrams is the public relations reduce water usage by approximately 3.5%. on a standard model to stock in its service director for Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Drain The remaining 30% reduction is due to the vans. They chose an attractive chrome Service, North America’s largest provider installation of the toilet tank parts. This is a shower head from Zurn (that is also branded of plumbing repair and drain cleaning statistic consistent with other independent under the Niagara name). The shower head services with more than 110 company- studies that have been conducted utilizing does not look like a low-flow model and owned locations and 500 independent these two products, including one by Bill for those of us who have tested it in our franchises. Gauley, an independent advisor to the own showers, the spray it emits is nothing USEPA’s WaterSense program. like the miserable low flow shower heads Save these important NOAA dates! July August September s m t w th f s s m t w th f s s m t w th f s 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 15 28 29 30 31 6 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 5 29 30 Golf Outing Fair Housing Key awards

12 May 2013 Shari Smith | Choice Property Resources Maximize Your Benefits of CableTV , Internet and Phone Contracts Telecommunications continues to change! From analog to digital; both cable and telephone companies competing for television, high-speed Internet and voice services; private cable operators are also pitching a triple play of services; FCC regulations banning exclusive service agreements; from wired to wireless; growing bandwidth expectancies, new technology being offered just to name a few.

As a result, now is an ideal time to re- • Preserve your rights to each Shari Smith of Choice Property examine current contracts – even communitys infrastructure, you have Resources, Inc., an Ohio based full- if the expiration dates are a few years the option of allowing the operator service consulting firm specializing in away, especially since technology exclusive or nonexclusive use of the telecommunications contract analysis, evolves more quickly than the legal or wiring. Yes compensation may be negotiations and implementation. regulatory environment. Remember, if affected. you can’t locate a copy of an agreement, A proud member of NOAA’s it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Be • The compensations is also relative Group Purchasing Program. sure to confirm all vendor payments to the exclusive or nonexclusive are being received on-time and in the marketing of the provider’s services. About Choice: amounts anticipated. Owners and managers representing In today’s world a multifamily owner 260,000 units on over 2,400 Maximizing your Return should not accept that a service apartments and condominiums have Once you’ve analyzed your portfolio’s provider is doing them a favor by just successfully engaged Choice as their existing contracts, take the time to serving your property! It is the owner’s agent, and they’ve enjoyed participating determine your objectives before capital dollars that created a market in the $24M of vendor paid door fees beginning contract negotiations. Also, more lucrative for a service provider, and/or revenue share since 1999. learn as much as possible about the key over single family units. issues involved in telecommunications Choice does all the work, allowing you service agreements, such as: Who will oversee the programs once the to focus on your core business. We are contracts are negotiated? It is important compensated based on performance – • Understand what new technology that these programs are monitored at limiting your risk! is being offered today that may all levels to derive maximum benefits provide the capability for new services including implementation, revenue If you would like to talk more about this tomorrow. collections, changes in technology and - I can be reached at shari@choiceprop. expiration dates / cancelation terms. com or 614-568-7303. • Determine if there are other strong providers to consider and ensure Best of luck to you! quality services for residents.

• Compare the multiple vendors, offer structures and business terms. When projecting revenue use realistic customer penetration levels, in order to make an apple to apples comparison.

• Ensure there is a window to cancel and renegotiate in the future. Automatic renewal clauses of more than one year are not in your best interest.

Suites Magazine 13 Nicole Smigel | Schill Grounds Management Hiring a Landscaping Partner the property? Is safety a priority? • What are your long-range goals for The landscaping may be your single largest line item in the the property? One often overlooked budget. Make sure you maximize your value by choosing and cost-effective solution to update a mature property’s curb appeal is to your partner wisely. work with an experienced landscape service provider to evaluate the plant Start by asking properties and managers Some questions to think about materials surrounding your buildings. you trust for referrals and check the OLA to prepare you for the upcoming Choose a partner that makes it a point to (Ohio Landscape Association) or NOAA landscaping season… maximize your investment by bringing (Northeast Ohio Apartment Association) • Is your current landscape vendor you creative solutions and ideas. for members. When interviewing landscape working for you or with you? A true maintenance providers, architects, business partner will not only complete • Ask for everything in writing, including designers or contractors, make sure you the required contract services, but the plans, contracts, guarantees or understand what services each provides, also will come to you with ideas on warranties. This should also include costs, including what will be subcontracted out. how to improve the curb appeal, recommended plants, schedule, payment identify any potential safety concerns, requirements and other contractual Another important thing to consider is your and present you with options on matters. Ask about the timeline and specifications. If your specs haven’t been how to best invest your dollars when what could disrupt the process (material updated or if they don’t match your service considering any enhancements. availability, weather, etc.). expectations, you may be unknowingly paving the way for misunderstandings. • Ask for references, licenses and insurance There’s always a learning curve when a new information. Is the firm active in local vendor comes onto the property, but having professional groups? Does the company Schill Grounds Management is proud of its clear, concise communication can ensure have any professional certifications? relationship with NOAA and its members. If everyone is on the same page from the start. you are considering making a change with • Visit a job site or two the firm has worked your current landscape service provider, Finally, a good practice to adopt is to allow on, if possible. Ask the landscaper for have any questions, or need advice about your final bids the opportunity to speak references of similar jobs. Is the site tidy your property, we encourage you to reach with you before a final determination and organized? Are they treating the out to us for a comprehensive bid analysis. has been made. While price is always property in a way you would expect from Please contact Jim Schill at 440.327.3030 an important factor in your decision, it your own team members? or email [email protected]. should not be the only one. Consider the • Does the crew appear knowledgeable, vendor’s reputation, book of business, and hardworking and have a professional philosophies to make sure their corporate appearance? Are they wearing the values are consistent with your own. required safety equipment when on

14 May 2013 BATHTUB and COUNTERTOP REFINISHING ON TIME and ON BUDGET! Let us show you just how good refinishing can be.

Before After

“All I can say is WOW. I was very “With inspections coming up, we worked “Miracle Method was prompt and impressed with the amount of money with Miracle Method to refinish our tile professional. We have had nothing short we saved refinishing countertops floors and bathtubs. Through out the of rave reviews from our tenants.” instead of replacing.” process they worked with our schedule, and got the job done on time, and on budget.” Kris Frindt Elizebeth DeMario Resident Services Coordinator, Property Manager, Ed Auel The Islander Apartments, Shoreham, Engineering Department , Western Reserve Management Burton Carol Cleveland Renaissance Hotel Miracle Method refinishing will look better, last longer and it’s guaranteed! Don’t settle for second best!

Call 216-671-3444 To schedule an appointment or for a free estimate Visit our showroom at 12438 Plaza Drive, Parma www.miraclemethod.com/cleveland 5-year warranty on all services! P orcelain • Tile • Formica® • Fiberglass • Cultured Marble • Chip Repair Each Miracle Method office is independently owned and operated. Suites Magazine 15 NORTHEAST OHIO APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (Buying) Power in Numbers

roup Purchase your G way to Big Savings

Apartment demand is strong; that we know. But success isn’t built on raising rents just because the market allows it. Maximizing profitability is also about managing expenses — massaging the bottom line by making sure your vendor contracts are priced competi- tively, and that you’re not sitting on outdated agreements or riding long-term relation- ships that, while commend- able from a loyalty standpoint, slash net income.

16 May 2013 Toward that end, the Northeast Ohio cut even better deals with suppliers, and that manager for Sherwin-Williams, said group Apartment Association created a Group what they gain from the time and convenience purchasing members get at least 25 percent Purchasing Program in 1997. Since then, of not having to shop for vendors and off paint and sundries, and that discounts the menu of group purchasing suppliers has negotiate fees is value that doesn’t necessarily can be even greater on specific paint lines. expanded to include paint, furniture and appear on an accounting ledger. And although larger companies can often flooring, energy, workers’ compensation, get great discounts on their own because of payroll services and more. Huge Buying Power sheer size, NOAA membership can result in So how hefty is NOAA’s buying power? additional savings. NOAA is now working on adding a group Consider, for instance, how much business medical insurance provider that could be membership now does with IGS Energy, Edward Newman, chief executive officer of in place by early next year. The move is to a Dublin, Ohio-based natural gas broker Summit Management Services, estimated counter federal healthcare laws that long- that NOAA added to its expanding group that what his company saves annually on time NOAA member and officer Chuck purchasing options in 2005. Sherwin-Williams paint, carpeting and Schulman estimates could increase his flooring, “translates into thousands of company’s medical benefits expenses by a “NOAA, as a group, buys as much natural dollars.” whopping 40 percent. gas from us as the Cleveland Clinic,’’ said Scott Arthur, the company’s sales director, The Akron-based company owns and “This would definitely help with that,’’ said “and the Cleveland Clinic is pretty close to manages 3,550 units — half in Northeast Schulman, principal of Beachwood-based our largest customer.” Ohio and half in Cincinnati, North Carolina Carlyle Management Co., which manages and Colorado. Summit joined the group 117 properties, representing 12,000 So, when a company such as 200 West purchasing program in the early 2000s as apartment units. Apartments Ltd. discusses prices for paint the firm expanded. The more units it added, and carpeting with Sherwin-Williams or a the better the discount. natural gas contract with IGS, a firm with Strictly Voluntary 173 units in Fairview Park carries the same “It was easier to take advantage of the Group purchasing is not a requirement weight as a group purchasing member 10 economies of scale,” Newman said. of NOAA membership. In fact, most times the size. members buy some services through group NOAA members can choose to work purchasing and work directly with other “It enables us to get discounts that we with any or none of the group vendors when they find they can get better could never get because we don’t have the purchasing providers. In fact, deals outside the group. volume of suites or couldn’t otherwise meet some have used the program the requirements,’’ said Janene Kubit, the to leverage even better “Sometimes we can find a better price for company’s general manager. “It’s really deals with long-standing the same product somewhere else,’’ said good for us. I know gas-wise, we’re saving vendors who realized that Jeff Breha, vice president of operations an awful lot right now.’’ if they wanted to keep their for Owners Management Co. in Bedford business, they’d better Heights. The company, with a portfolio Brad Harrington, national sales come up shooting. of 4,100 units in Ohio, New York, Delaware and Connecticut, buys paint and carpet through the group, but appliances, lighting and cabinets outside of it.

But apartment owners and managers say the discounts they realize through group purchasing are pure value added from their membership in a trade association that also provides political clout, industry education and business and social networking.

The power of group purchasing, of course, is strength in numbers. Companies, and especially small- and mid-sized firms, gain negotiating muscle they wouldn’t have otherwise. Some NOAA members say the leverage of group purchasing also allows them to

Suites Magazine 17 Joy Anzalone, chief operating officer Bob Waldock, office manager of W-T Realty, A Convenient Time-Saver of Burton Carol Management LLC in which owns and manages 17 apartment The potential savings aren’t strictly Warrensville Heights, recalled such an communities and several single-family financial. There’s also the value of experience with a trash service her firm homes in Sandusky, Huron, Fremont and time and convenience, as Schulman, had worked with for years. Burton is large Clyde, said group purchasing had allowed whose firm does group purchasing for — 5,000 units in 25 properties in Ohio, him at one point to buy paint almost natural gas, electricity and workers’ Michigan and Florida — and already cheaper than what the local distributor compensation, discovered. enjoyed great purchasing power with which was buying it for. He estimated saving to negotiate favorable contracts. about 40 percent, or “certainly in the 10s of By his own admission, Schulman is the thousands of dollars.” type of executive who dives into the When the company compared its trash details. Ok, micromanages them. He contract to the deal NOAA was getting, W-T is converting many of its properties to would invest countless hours researching Anzalone realized the group purchasing more energy-efficient lighting. The savings and shopping vendors and negotiating fees were even lower. She was about to allows the improvements to be made prices until concluding one day that move her business to the group when the immediately rather than piece-meal the time he spent on that end of the trash provider, fearing the loss of a major or delaying the project altogether. business was taking him away from other client, dropped its price to compete. The essentials. mere threat of NOAA group purchasing And Kubit recently updated her immediately saved Burton $100,000 that building’s lobby with new wallpaper, “It always wound up being a real chore,’’ year just on garbage pickup. paint and a flat-screen television he said. “This gives me the opportunity to with a helpful PowerPoint not have to do that anymore. This allows “It gave us the hammer display for residents. you to invest the time on the other details to work with our current of the business.’’ vendor because he knew we were leaving,” she said. “It Prices for natural gas and electricity, for absolutely enhances the value example, are volatile and unpredictable. of membership.’’ Like any commodity, prices are affected by the economy, supply and demand, What savings through group regulatory policy and other factors. purchasing does, members They change not just daily but say, is allow their companies by the second. Shopping price to allocate resources for is even more complicated property improvements that because there are dozens of might not otherwise be suppliers making all kinds possible. of marketing pitches.

18 May 2013 North Shore Energy, NOAA’s group Marty Cohen, of H&M Management in through the program are researched and purchasing electricity broker, represents Parma Heights, was among the original vetted. Their credibility, reliability and 27 suppliers alone. North Shore members to sign on to group purchasing. reputations are already assured. negotiates rates and helps members He still shops prices independent of the navigate the complex and dynamic market group and hires vendors unaffiliated with “You don’t have to check references,” so they don’t, as company President Chris the program when he can negotiate better he said. “You know they’re already a Greulich has seen first-hand, sign up for prices on his own. reputable concern.” a terrible multi-year deal that can cost them 20 percent more than they should But, Cohen said, group purchasing saves be paying. him time and allows a certain sense of security because vendors secured

My Five

Sources: Various NOAA members.

Consider group purchasing as a menu of options from which you can choose. It’s not a one- 1 size-fits-all program.

Talk to other members about the pros and cons of group purchasing and how they 2 capitalize on the program.

Even with group purchasing, it’s always wise to evaluate your service contracts annually to 3 maximize savings.

When weighing pricing decisions, factor in the cost of time you spend researching, 4 negotiating and qualifying vendors.

Make suggestions to NOAA leadership about new services you’d like to see added to the 5 group purchasing program.

NOA’ A s Group Purchasing Partners

• Electric Supply • Paint & Carpet North Shore Energy Sherwin Williams Gary Greulich • (330) 807-4438 Mike Finazzo or Chuck Jennison • (216) 271-6111

• Faucets and Parts • Payroll Services American Brass Manufacturing Ahola Matt McConville • (216) 431-6565 Jeffrey Ahola • (440) 717-7620 x 147

• Marketing Services • Telecom Ancillary Revenue & More Consolidated Solutions Choice Property Resources Art Johanson • (440) 668-6032 Shari Smith • (614) 568-7303

• Natural Gas Supply • Workers Compensation IGS Energy CareWorks Consultants Scott Arthur • (877) 923-4447 x 2605 Shawn Combs • (614) 526-7264

Suites Magazine 19 Amy Stauffer | AMRENT Resident Screening: Even as our economy continues to recover from the record number of foreclosures and bankruptcies in recent years, some property managers still struggle to find qualified residents to fill apartment vacancies. When you add to that the other numerous responsibilities involved in property management, the job can seem overwhelming.

Fortunately, one process has become more address, social security number and history, rental information, streamlined over the past decade – resident DOB. This step takes only a few seconds criminal data, and eviction screening. While developing an effective but can save an enormous amount of activity. Make sure your rental program can be a complex and detailed time and money down the road. standards are clear, concise, and undertaking, it adds value beyond making • Require all occupants to be listed on the consistent. Sharing these criteria with your life easier for property managers. A strong application (regardless of age). applicants lets them know in advance your resident screening process can actually save • Obtain at least one emergency contact, standards, and again, convey the message and increase revenue for your company. preferably a family member or very close that your community and company care friend. This will be an important contact about the quality of the resident profile Simply stated, the money generated for your in event of a skip or balance owed at the living there. In addition, the applicant’s properties comes from your residents. If the end of the lease. signature or initials on this document residents aren’t paying on time (or at all), helps ensure that they understand your that can cause significant cash flow issues for It is extremely important to add language approval policy. your company. Such a scenario underscores to your rental application that provides the critical importance and impact that a consent from the consumer for you to Once your rental standards are in place, a robust resident screening program can have access additional consumer reports during consistent review process is imperative. on your ability to maintain and improve and after the lease expires. Without this Using a “decision program” offered by your community’s image. consent, property managers are at risk of most screening companies can reduce non-compliance with Fair Credit Reporting reliance on subjective and judgmental The Rental Application Act (FCRA) guidelines if they access factors. Depending on the flexibility of the consumer reports for reasons other than the decision model, multiple decision messages Screening your residents properly starts initial applicant approval process. can be delivered with tiered standards with a comprehensive rental application. being applied to unique property types – This creates the framework for your The Resident Screening Process i.e. different guidelines for conventional property to produce, retain, and increase properties versus tax credit or HUD revenue for your company. Practicing these Here is where many companies forget the communities. The most sophisticated tips will build a solid foundation for the saying, “You get what you pay for.” While models can return multiple decisions for applicant screening process: there are costs associated with implementing usually little or no extra cost. Screening in an effective resident screening program, this fashion can provide many benefits to • Obtain legal ID information and any they should be considered an investment your company, including: alias or nickname (identity fraud can be in building a long-term leasing relationship costly). with qualified residents. In most states, • Instant “point of sale” approvals • Get detailed address information such costs can be passed along to applicants • Consistent review and decision making including apartment numbers and in the form of an application fee. Standard • Decreased staff training multiple previous addresses. Check application fees within the industry range • Upper management policy control for concurrent dates and account for a from $20.00 to $50.00, a cost many • Improved resident retention history relative to your rental standards. applicants are willing to pay. Some state • Request current paystubs or a letter of laws specify the maximum amount that can Streamlining the Screening Process: verification from the employer’s HR be charged or require that the consumers be department to verify the applicant’s notified in advance of being charged. Using today’s technologies can further build current employment. efficiencies into the applicant screening • Verify all information by collecting Depending on your community standards, process. Some of the most sophisticated photo identification. Confirm name, you should review – at minimum – credit property management software providers

20 May 2013 and screening companies will partner to renting to applicants who don’t meet from which to generate operating revenue. offer their mutual clients the benefit of your standards costs up to three times In a tough economic market with additional using one program for multiple purposes. the amount of an apartment left vacant. safety threats affecting apartment owners, Using a software provider that partners • Avoid “giving away the farm” to entice resident screening practices have more with a quality screening solution helps applicants to rent your apartments. consequences than ever before. The to improve efficiencies and reduce the This practice typically attracts impact of cutting corners during the amount of training time for property staff. unqualified renters. application process can severely impact These benefits help enhance the bottom • Improve resident retention by offering your community’s reputation, bottom line, line. In addition, management control of short-term renewal leases when and safety. site level processes can be reviewed from applicable. This should reduce the one program. likelihood of skips. Resident screening is one expense well • Report your resident’s rental history worth paying. If you don’t bother to invest Best Business Practices Related to to a secure and compliant database to in quality resident screening, you may Applicant Processing reward on- time payers, deter lease unwittingly push your residents to find a breakers and incent residents to take community that does. Companies make decisions every day about their lease agreements seriously. how to run their businesses. Some decisions • Approve higher risk applicants with are tried and true and others are adopted conditional offers – i.e. increase without much consideration. Consider security deposit and co-signer or one For additional information related to this these practices for producing, retaining, month’s rent as deposit and 1st month’s article, contact Amy Stauffer Account and increasing revenue for your company: rent up front. Executive, AmRent at (888) 508-4669 • Apply any offer of free rent at the end of or [email protected]. AmRent • Structure leasing commissions so the the lease agreement. is a proud to participate in NOAA’s focus is on customer service and lease President’s Circle. renewals rather than new move-ins. Resident Screening – The Bottom • Promote and reward resident referrals Line Impact at the middle and end of the referred resident’s lease agreement. Now more than ever, thorough resident • Maintain your rental standards – even screening provides property management in a soft market. Studies show that firms with a solid foundation of residents

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Suites Magazine 21 Michael P. Mandato | System Care, Inc. EVP T hree Expensive Missteps You’re Probably Making With Your Data Backups

I’m going to share with you only back up their server; the problem you could fall out of an airplane, would you is, employees often keep a LOT of critical want the cheapest parachute strapped to three common missteps documents and data on their workstations your back? Of course not – and that doesn’t companies make with data that are NOT being backed up; and if you’re mean you need to spend an arm and a leg for depending on them to remember to do it, the most expensive one either. backup that you *might* you’re asking for trouble. The right thing to do is automate your backups so ALL devices If you’re not on our one of our proactive care be making. and data are backed up without depending backup solutions and you’re using a cheap on someone’s memory. offsite backup like Mozy or Carbonite, OR if 1. Not Doing A Reverse Backup. If you’re using outdated tape to back up your you use any line of business application 3. Having A Single Point Of Failure. If data, then give us a call IMMEDIATELY to in the cloud to store data – including you’re still using outdated tape drives (and find out how we can let you sleep easier at accounting records, client files and the we hope you’re NOT) you might discover night with a far more reliable data backup. like, you should be backing ALL of that that nobody can remember the password to So don’t want; call us today for a free data back to your location on a regular access the data on it. Or there may be only consultation and backup assessment to find basis. How frequent? That depends on one person in the organization that knows out how to protect yourself from data loss, how much you are willing to lose. If you where your data is being backed up and corruption or extended downtime. could lose a week of data, then backup how to access it. A smart move would be to weekly. If the thought of that puts you walk though a couple of “what if” scenarios into fits, then backup daily. Most cloud to see if you actually have what you need to providers are savvy enough to have recover your data. If you need assistance, give us a call or redundant systems and backups of your contact me directly 440-925-4005 x133 to data – but don’t risk it! Having a good, reliable backup and disaster walk you through the process of creating a recovery plan are essentials for every business strong password. 2. Depending On Employees To Save that should be installed and maintained by a Visit www.systemcareinc.com to find out Data To Your Server. Many offices pro. After all, if you knew there was a chance more information.

22 May 2013 OHIO APARTMENT ASSOCIATION L egislative Update Outlined below are bills that were followed for the Ohio Apartment Association in the 130th General Assembly.

Current priority bills the remediation unless agreed to by the property HB 59: BIENNIAL BUDGET owner. (Amstutz, R) - To make operating appropriations Current Status: 02/13/2013 Referred to Civil HB 9: RECEIVER’S POWERS for the biennium beginning July 1, 2013, and Justice Committee 2/27/2013 - House Judiciary ending June 30, 2015; to provide authorization (Second Hearing) and conditions for the operation of state SB 22: PROPERTY REMEDIATION- programs. METHAMPHETAMINE LABS HB 46: SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION-TAX Current Status: 03/12/2013 House Ways and (LaRose, Beagle) - To provide for the APPEALS BOARD Means Subcommittee on HB 59, (Fifth Hearing) remediation of real property on which an illegal 02/13/2013 Referred to Ways and Means 03/12/2013 House Health and Human Services methamphetamine manufacturing laboratory Committee Subcommittee, (Seventh Hearing) has been discovered. 03/12/2013 House Primary and Secondary Current Status: 3/6/2013 - Senate Medicaid, HB 59: BIENNIAL BUDGET Education Subcommittee, (Ninth Hearing) Health and Human Services, (First Hearing) 03/12/2013 Multiple committee hearings (see 03/12/2013 House Transportation below) Subcommittee, (Ninth Hearing) SB 29: INCOME TAX REFUND- 03/12/2013 House Higher Education JUDGMENT DEBTOR TENANT SB 16: ABANDONED LAND Subcommittee, (Ninth Hearing) (Schaffer, T) - To enable a judgment creditor 02/13/2013 Referred to Civil Justice Committee 03/12/2013 House Agriculture and Development landlord to obtain a court order directing the Tax Commissioner to pay the judgment debtor SB 22: PROPERTY REMEDIATION- Subcommittee, (Seventh Hearing) METHAMPHETAMINE LABS tenant’s income tax refund to the landlord. 3/6/2013 - Senate Medicaid, Health and Human HB 82: OHIO’S CIVIL RIGHTS LAW Current Status: 2/27/2013 - Senate Ways and Services (First Hearing) EXEMPTION Means, (First Hearing) Other Issues (Hayes, Blair) - To exempt religious corporations, 1. Civil Right Commission rules regarding damage associations, educational institutions, or SB 41: SIDEWALKS AND PATHS awards in housing discrimination case. OAA societies from the definition of “employer” for (Gardner, R) - To authorize municipal opposed first draft and testified at public hearing the purpose of Ohio’s Civil Rights law. corporations to establish districts and impose on December 3. Rules were pulled from December Current Status: 3/6/2013 - House Judiciary, special assessments for the installation, 10 JCARR agenda. Dimitri Hatzifotinos, Steve (First Hearing) maintenance, and improvement of sidewalks Gladman and Maryellen Corbett attended an and paths. interested party meeting with the CRC to discuss. Senate Current Status: 2/20/2013 - Referred to The CRC staff seemed to understand the objections Committee Senate Public Safety, Local we were raising. The CRC is reviewing the draft SB 14: UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION Government and Veterans Affairs and committed to sharing new drafts with us when LAW available. (Kearney, E) - To authorize programs SB 51: FLAG DISPLAYS 2. Kidde is again trying to promote smoke detector and tax credits to encourage the hiring of (Coley, W) - To prohibit manufactured homes language. unemployed individuals, to make changes to the park operators, condominium associations, Unemployment Compensation Law, to authorize neighborhood associations, and landlords from H ouse grants and tax credits for the rehabilitation of restricting the display of blue star banners, gold distressed areas and the expansion of broadband star banners, and other service flags, and to HB 7: GAMBLING LAW connections to rural areas, to create a revolving prohibit manufactured homes park operators (Huffman, M) - To permit the Bureau of Criminal loan fund and a bonding program for small and landlords from restricting the display of the Identification and Investigation to investigate businesses, to make changes to the Minority United States flag. criminal activity related to the Gambling Law, to Business Bonding Program, to levy taxes, and to Current Status: 02/27/2013 Referred to Public make changes related to schemes of chance, and make an appropriation. Safety, Local Government and Veterans Affairs to require certifications related to the conduct Current Status: 02/13/2013 Referred to Finance Committee of a sweepstakes with the use of a sweepstakes Committee terminal device. SB 52: PROPERTY TAX COMPLAINTS Current Status: 3/5/2013 - House Policy and SB 16: ABANDONED LAND (Coley, W) - To permit property tax complaints Legislative Oversight, (Third Hearing) (Schiavoni, J) - To provide that a person is to be initiated only by the property owner. not criminally or civilly liable for trespassing Current Status: 3/5/2013 - Senate Ways and HB 46: SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION-TAX on certain abandoned land or similar places Means, (First Hearing) APPEALS BOARD of public amusement if the person enters or (Amstutz, R) - To create a small claims division remains on the land or place of public amusement of the Ohio Board of Tax Appeals, to allow for to remediate it and knows or has reasonable parties to file a notice of appeal to the Board cause to believe that the land or place of public by facsimile or electronic transmission using amusement is in one of those categories; to electronic mail, to require the Board to establish provide the property owner with immunity from a case management schedule for appeals, and liability to a person who enters or remains on to authorize the Tax Commissioner to expedite the land or place of public amusement in those and issue a final determination for residential circumstances subject to the statute governing property value appeals with written consent of liability to trespassers; and to provide that a the parties. person who enters or remains on the land or place Current Status: 02/13/2013 Referred to Ways of public amusement in those circumstances is and Means Committee not entitled to any reimbursement for any cost of

Suites Magazine 23 NOAA ONLINE | www.NOAAMEMBERS.com/buyers-guide Buyers Guide

Listings on noaamembers.com/buyers-guide as of February 15th 2013.

The following members are listed on noaamembers.com/buyers-guide. Visit our site for a complete searchable guide.

Associate members - to see your company listed here simply register and submit a free buyers guide listing at our site. Members are listed alphabetically. Logos are included from those provided.

Active Plumbing Supply Peet McCain Title: Plumbing Specialist Phone: 216-459-2700 Products and Services: Cabinet Services, Plumbing c.c.mitchell. America’s Floor Source Stu Kaine Apartments.com Phone: (440) 526-2040 Errol Torres Cindy Moran Products and Services: Appliances Title: Property Management Sales Phone: 216-548-0730 www.ccmitchell.com Phone: 216-342-4929 Products and Services: Advertising Services Products and Services: Floor Services Carpet Short Business Description: AmericasFloorSource.com Apartments.com brings your community to life on- Choice Property Resources, Inc. line, attracting qualified prospects with the ultimate Shari Smith website showcase. Phone: 614-568-7303 Products and Services: Ancillary Income, Consult- ing, Contract Negotiations, Telecommunications Consulting http://www.choiceprop.com

American Brass Manufacturing Matt McConville Phone: (216) 431-6565 Products and Services: Plumbing Short Business Description: Manufacturer and distributor of quality plumbing products specializing in faucets. AT&T http://www.americanbrass.com Jim Wood

Phone: 330-310-3746 Products and Services: Alarm Services, Communi- American Disaster Restoration cations Services, Communications Services - High Chris Concilla Speed Data, Communications Services - Mobile Phone: 216-236-0475 Phone Provider, Internet - Providers, Telecommu- Coinmach Laundry Products and Services: Disaster Remediation nications Consulting, Television Services, Television Jamie Chabra http://www.americanpreservationbuilders.com Services - Broadband, Television Services - Cable http://communities.att.com Phone: (800) 362-3182 x57015 Products and Services: Laundry Equipment and Services Short Business Description: Nations leading provider of pay for use commercial laundry equipment http://www.coinmach.com/

AmRent Belfor Property Restoration Amy Stauffer Michelle Kirda Phone: 888 508 4669 Phone: (800) 922-3848 Products and Services: Applicant Screening, Back- Products and Services: Remodeling and Renovation, ground Checks, Credit Reports, Employment Screen- Restoration, Restoration - Fire Damage, Restoration ing, Resident Screening, Tenant Screening - Insurance Restoration www.belfor.com Consolidated Solutions Art Johanson Answering Cleveland, Inc. Phone: (440) 668-6032 Martha Thomas Products and Services: Corporate Branding, Print Title: President Buy Rite Office Products Inc.. Technology Phone: 216-621-1878 Michelle Ryb https://www.cgginc.com Products and Services: 24 Hour Call Service Phone: 216-292-7112 http://www.answeringcleveland.com Products and Services: Furniture, Office - Supplies http://www.buyriteop.com

24 May 2013

IGS Energy Scott Arthur CORT Phone: (614) 659-5100 Chris Stahurski Products and Services: Gas, Gas - Natural Gas Sup- Schill Grounds Management Phone: 4407348400 pliers, Utilities Nicole Smigel Products and Services: Furniture, Relocation Infor- www.igsenergy.com Title: Director of Business Development mation Phone: 440.327.3030 http://www.cort.com Products and Services: Landscaping http://www.schilllandscaping.com Lewis & Son Construction Mike Lewis Phone: 440-525-5397 Products and Services: Masonry Services, Siding Sears Commercial Al Krahling Phone: 330-581-2102 Products and Services: Appliances, Fitness Equip- ment NWP Services Corporation http://www.searscommercial.com/ Annette VanDuren Phone: 630-857-9609 Products and Services: Billing Services - Utility http://www.nwpsc.com County Fire Protection Inc John Lubinski Phone: 330 673 3600 http://county-fire.com Pella Window & Door Co. Business Tags: back flow prevention, fire alarm, fire Deb Sharrits extinguisher, fire pump, sprinkler Title: Commercial Division Sales Sherwin Williams Co. Phone: 440-477-6165 CJ Handwerk Products and Services: Window Services Phone: (216) 271-6111 http://www.guntonpella.com/ Products and Services: Floor Services Carpet, Floor Services Carpet - Hardwood Floors, Floor Services Carpet - Marble/Granite, Paint Services, Remodeling and Renovation, Wallpaper, Window Services www.sherwin-williams.com

Dawson Neace Lukens Jeffery P. Reisner Phone: (440) 895-6365 Products and Services: Consulting, Insurance Time Warner Cable Rod Staats Powers Friedman Linn PLL Phone: (330) 630-7938 Michael Linn Products and Services: Advertising Services, Com- Phone: (216) 514-1180 munications Services, Communications Services Glass Doctor Products and Services: Attorneys at Law, Legal and Matt Kelly - High Speed Data, Internet - Advertising and Law Services, Legal and Law Services - Evictions Listings, Internet - Providers, Television Services, Phone: 216-391-7035 www.pfl-law.com/attorneys.html Products and Services: Glass Replacement and Television Services - Broadband, Television Services Repair - Cable http://glassdoctoroh.com/ www.twcbc.com

Riot Creative Imaging Ashley Dismore Phone: 216-539-1491 Guardian Water & Power Products and Services: Advertising Services Sean Dicks http://www.riotcolor.com Title: National Sales Manager Phone: 877-291-3141 x 124 Products and Services: Submetering, Utilities http://www.guardianwp.com/

hhgregg -commercial division Jon Gensel Phone: 216-246-4704 Products and Services: Appliances http://www.hhgregg.com ROTO-ROOTER David Neale Phone: (216) 214-3315 Products and Services: Boilers, Gas - Line Repair/ Replacement, Pipe Cleaning, Plumbing, Submeter- ing, Toilet Services, Water Fountains and Coolers, Water Heaters www.rotorooter.com

Suites Magazine 25 Eviction Index

The Suites Magazine Eviction Index is presented to owners and managers of multifamily properties to assist them in assessing the regional market. The numbers represent the number of eviction filings in the corresponding courts.

The Eviction Index is sponsored by Powers Friedman Linn, PLL, a law firm specializing in real estate management issues.

2012 Court Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. Bedford 173 156 140 175 227 215 205 212 159 222 134 177 208 Cleveland 769 799 803 1061 1011 1170 1075 939 1017 720 778 1058 788 Euclid 102 117 112 133 159 158 114 105 120 133 124 193 111 Lakewood 82 72 78 68 94 81 103 82 75 63 89 88 82 Parma 100 89 95 125 166 122 136 126 127 109 108 147 109 Painesville 43 35 37 32 46 48 44 45 55 54 23 48 32 Total 1269 1268 1265 1593 1703 1794 1677 1509 1553 1301 1256 1711 1330

Total Eviction Index - Historical Line Chart

2000 1800 1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 July July July May May May May May May June June June April April April March March March March March March August August August August August August January January January January October October October October October October February February February February February February February February December December December December December December November November November November November November September September September September September September

2010 2011 2012

V acancy Rates

2012 AREA Feb. March April May June July Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Feb. Northeast 4.00% 2.50% 2.40% 1.60% 0.80% 2.20% 3.30% 3.60% 3.40% 3.80% 3.80% 4.20% 4.90% Southeast 4.30% 2.30% 1.40% 1.90% 1.70% 4.40% 4.10% 4.20% 4.70% 5.00% 5.00% 4.70% 4.90% South/Southeast 3.10% 2.70% 2.00% 2.40% 0.00% 2.70% 2.50% 2.0% 2.50% 2.90% 2.90% 3.30% 3.40% Northwest 3.40% 2.40% 1.60% 1.50% 1.30% 2.10% 1.70% 2.50% 2.40% 2.80% 2.80% 2.80% 2.40% Southwest 5.60% 5.00% 4.90% 4.70% 3.70% 4.80% 4.80% 4.80% 3.80% 4.40% 4.40% 4.40% 4.40% Entire Region 4.30% 3.50% 3.20% 2.90% 2.00% 3.30% 3.80% 3.42% 3.50% 3.90% 3.90% 4.10% 4.20%

Total Vacancy Rates - Historical Line Chart

12.00%

10.00%

8.00%

6.00%

4.00%

2.00%

0.00% July July July July July May May May May May May May May May May June June June June June April April April April April March March March March March March March March March March August August August August August August August August August August January January January January January January October October October October October October October October October October February February February February February February February February February February February February December December December December December December December December December December November November November November November November November November November November September September September September September September September September September September

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

26 May 2013 Northeast Ohio Apartment Association Michael Linn Powers Friedman Linn, PLL www.pfl-law.com • Real Estate Management Law FREE • Fair Housing Law and Litigation Legal • Collections and Creditors’ Rights

Hilary Michael Javitch, Block & Rathbone, LLC HOTLINE www.jbandr.com • Evictions • General / Defense • Fair Housing • Litigation A NOAA members-only service • Collections • Rent Escrow / Deposit providing free legal advice for difficult situations. Expert attorneys, specializing in real estate and commerce law, are Lei Jiang available to our members. Lei Jiang LLC leijianglaw.com How it works: Call NOAA with your • Real Estate • Civil Litigation issue, (216) 241-1635, we will take your • Foreclosure • Evictions information. The appropriate attorney • Business & Corporate will contact you within 24 hours. While this is a free service, you will be charged if you require representation. Any advice provided during this service does not create any attorney-client relationship.

Index of Advertisers

R yan Flanagan Media and Marketing Manager 13 Choice Property Resources P: 216.241.1635 5 Consolidated Solutions NOAANortheast Ohio Apartment Association E: [email protected] 7 Get A Grip 28 IGS Energy S uites is your most targeted, cost-effective 21 Marcus & Millichap opportunity to reach all the owners and operators of residential multifamily properties 15 Miracle Method in Northeast Ohio. Start making plans now to 11 Ohio Geese Control place your message in front of our fast-growing 11 Powers, Friedman, Linn and affluent market. 9 Sleggs, Danzing & Gill, Co. LPA Visit: http://www.noaamembers.com/suites- 22 System Care magazine to download the media kit and view current and back issues of Suites. Scan For Contact Info

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